Martha Rayner

Martha Rayner is a Clinical Associate Professor of Law at Fordham Law School, where she has taught since 1998. She co-directs the Criminal Defense Clinic, focusing on trial-level defense, civil consequences of arrests, and advocacy for Guantanamo detainees.

• Education: J.D. from CUNY School of Law (1986), B.A. from Clark University (1980)

Her research spans Criminal Law, Public Defense, Human Rights, and National Security, with a focus on systemic inequities in parole, military detention, and courtroom dynamics. Recent work analyzes proprietary algorithms like COMPAS Re-entry in parole decisions and gender biases in legal practice.

Her publications address military detention, post-conviction advocacy, and prison health policy. She has been cited in media outlets such as Times Union for critiquing penal system reforms.

• Scientific Awards: Charles H. Revson Fellowship (Columbia University, 1997-1998)

Rayner’s clinical work includes training volunteer attorneys through Fordham’s Parole Advocacy Initiative and collaborating on feminist lawyering in criminal courts. She emphasizes ethical representation and systemic change in her practice.